Virgin Australia has today announced the expansion of its Pets in Cabin network to include flights between Cairns and Melbourne from 22 October 2026.
More than 2,000 small cats and dogs have flown since the Pets in Cabin service launched in October 2025. Flights are now available to book on selected services departing Melbourne, Adelaide, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and Cairns.
Quote attributable to Virgin Australia Chief Customer Officer, Andrew Cleary:
“Bringing Pets in Cabin flights to Cairns means Aussies can now bring their four-legged companions on a getaway to one of Queensland’s most popular holiday destinations,” said Mr Cleary.
“It is also great news for Cairns locals and tourism businesses, giving more pet-owning visitors the opportunity to stay, dine and explore locally, helping support accommodation providers, restaurants, attractions and tourism operators across the region.”
“We know pets are part of the family, so for many Australians, being able to bring them along when they travel is really important.
“We know people are also thinking carefully about how they spend their holiday budget, and bringing your pet along means the whole family can enjoy the getaway together, without having to organise separate care at home.”
“Since launching Pets in Cabin last October, more than 2,000 pets have already flown with their owners, and the response tells us there is a real appetite for more pet-friendly destinations across the Virgin Australia network.
“With Pets in Cabin flights now available on flights between Melbourne, Adelaide, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast and Cairns, we’re giving more customers the choice to travel with their pets as they plan their next getaway,” he said.
For more information on Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin service, please visit here.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Virgin Australia Pets in Cabin services are now available to book as follows:
Departing Melbourne:
- Melbourne > Adelaide
- Melbourne > Gold Coast
- Melbourne > Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore)
- Melbourne > Cairns
Departing Adelaide:
- Adelaide > Melbourne
- Adelaide > Gold Coast
Departing Gold Coast:
- Gold Coast > Adelaide
- Gold Coast > Melbourne
Departing Sunshine Coast:
- Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) > Melbourne
Departing Cairns:
- Cairns > Melbourne
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